Teenagers in the Ionia area now have an opportunity to meet, relax, chat and share their creativity.

Java Lines is a new program at the Ionia Community Library that is becoming more and more popular after a short trial run. For one hour and 15 minutes, teenagers are welcome to gather together and converse, listen to music and share their artwork, writing or other forms of creative expression.

"Now there are kids that are really excited about it," said Ionia Community Library Teen Librarian Sally Wilcox, adding 30 teenagers attended the event. "It has just gotten more successful each time."

She said members of the Ionia High School Jazz Band have come in to perform as well as acoustic guitarist and singers. The point is for the music and art to be produced by teens for teens.

"I really want it to be a place where kids can share their creative endeavors and maybe inspire other kids to do the same," Wilcox added.

She said Java Lines is becoming a supportive, open and non-threatening creative outlet for the teens, who have already shared chapters of novels they are writing and how to do origami art.

Wilcox said she feels Java Lines is a positive event for teens and gives them a free, local place to visit and share their love of all types of arts.

"It's a safe place for kids to be," she added.

Java Lines takes place from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. every second Thursday of each month.

For more information, call the Ionia Community Library at 616-527-3680.